Development Services Project Manager

The Development Services Project Manager is responsible for coordinating and advancing development-related projects that support the City's economic development objectives. The position serves as the operational and project management partner to the Economic Development Advocate (EDA) by managing development project logistics, facilitating cross-department coordination, administering development-related programs, and providing technical support throughout the development process.

The position manages the day-to-day coordination of development initiatives to ensure projects progress efficiently, departments remain aligned, and developers, property owners, and business partners receive timely and accurate information. This position supports, but does not direct, the City's economic development strategy, business recruitment, or business retention activities led by the Economic Development Advocate. This list may not include all tasks and/or knowledge which may be expected of the employee, nor does it cover all specific duties which may be required. Other duties may be assigned.

Project Management

• Manages assigned development projects from initial inquiry through project completion by coordinating project activities, schedules, milestones, and communication among internal and external stakeholders.
• Serves as a primary project management resource for development-related initiatives and provides technical guidance regarding City development processes.
• Monitors project schedules and development review timelines to promote timely completion and identify potential issues requiring resolution.
• Maintains project documentation, status reports, and related records.

Economic Development & Redevelopment Support

• Supports retail and commercial recruitment initiatives by developing and implementing operational plans and project support activities in collaboration with the EDA.
• Administers redevelopment agreements, incentive programs, and other development-related initiatives as assigned.
• Maintains inventories of available commercial properties, development sites, demographic information, market data, and broker contacts.
• Conducts research related to market conditions, commercial development opportunities, retail gaps, and economic trends.
• Prepares technical materials, presentations, reports, and informational resources used to promote development opportunities to developers, investors, site selectors, businesses, and community stakeholders.

Development Review & Interdepartmental Coordination

• Coordinates development review activities among Planning, Public Works, Fire, Legal, Engineering, and other City departments.
• Facilitates communication among departments to ensure timely review of development projects.
• Provides planning-related technical support including development application coordination, zoning information, site readiness activities, annexation planning support, and development review processes.
• Coordinates meetings, project review groups, and other cross-functional teams associated with development projects.
• Assists with preparation of materials related to redevelopment agreements, project feasibility reviews, and development recommendations.

Communication, Research & Reporting

• Serves as a point of contact for developers, consultants, property owners, and other stakeholders regarding project status and development processes.
• Researches and prepares reports, presentations, correspondence, and other documents supporting Development Services initiatives.
• Maintains accurate project records and development databases.
• Assists in identifying opportunities to improve development processes, coordination efforts, and customer service.

General Skill Levels:

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of municipal planning principles, development review processes, zoning regulations, and site development practices.
• Knowledge of economic development principles, redevelopment programs, and commercial recruitment practices.
• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.
• Ability to coordinate multiple complex projects and competing priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to analyze information, conduct research, and develop practical recommendations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, elected officials, developers, business representatives, consultants, and the public.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and other software used to manage projects and development information. 

Education/Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Economic Development, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
• Three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in project management, economic development, planning, development coordination, redevelopment, or a related municipal field.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

 Certificates or Licenses: 

• Required – Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Preferred
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
  • PHR or SPHR certified, Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) or Certified Employment 
  • Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) designation 
  • SHRM or other HR-designated certification
  • IPMA HR Certification 
  • Illinois Municipal experience  

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Work is performed primarily in an office environment with occasional visits to development sites, businesses, construction projects, and partner organizations. Attendance at evening meetings or other events outside normal business hours may be required. Work requires the ability to communicate effectively, operate standard office equipment, and occasionally travel throughout the community.

Full Salary Range: $74,933 - $112,398